Visit to Vietnam
The aim of the training was to strengthen the preparedness and operational capabilities of Vietnamese services and specialists involved at various levels of response to incidents involving chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) agents. The programme combined theoretical knowledge with practical exercises based on realistic operational scenarios, enabling participants to translate their understanding of threats into effective response procedures.

The training addressed contemporary CBRN threats, with particular emphasis on risks related to terrorism and potential incident scenarios. Participants familiarised themselves with the classification and characteristics of CBRN agents, analysing the threats posed by specific substances and materials, as well as their significance for planning and conducting response operations.
Knowledge Transfer at the International Level
A substantial part of the programme was devoted to developing practical skills. Participants practised the correct donning and doffing of personal protective equipment, with particular emphasis on reducing the risk of self-contamination. Exercises related to incident scene assessment included hazard identification, the establishment of exclusion zones, and the securing of traces and evidence in simulated incident and crime scenes. The programme also covered practical principles of decontamination for personnel, equipment and casualties, highlighting the importance of properly organised procedures in limiting the spread of contamination.

The exchange of knowledge and experience with Vietnamese specialists was an integral element of the training. Their expertise, active participation and commitment made a significant contribution to the delivery of the programme and supported the shared objective of sustainably strengthening local preparedness and response capabilities in the field of CBRN threats.
The participation of the Biohazard Prevention Centre of the University of ¾«¶«Ó°ÊÓ in this initiative constituted a contribution to international cooperation aimed at reducing CBRN risks and developing the practical competencies of professionals responsible for public safety.

The training was delivered under Project 106 – TEST, funded by the European Union through the EU CBRN Centres of Excellence Initiative, in cooperation with GOPA PACE (consortium leader), ISEM Institute (technical consortium co-leader), GOPA Worldwide Consultants, the Belgian National Crisis Centre, and the Biohazard Prevention Centre of the University of ¾«¶«Ó°ÊÓ, with the support of the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI).
Source and photos: Prof. MichaÅ‚ Bijak (Biohazard Prevention Centre, University of ¾«¶«Ó°ÊÓ)
Edit: Mateusz Kowalski (Promotion Centre, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of ¾«¶«Ó°ÊÓ)